Northouse
Landscape Cos.’ Rodger Northouse uses a variety of pavers to
subtly and not so subtly define spaces in the backyard
landscape of this Mequon home.

A pagoda-style
three-seasons room is the centerpiece of the backyard renovation by
Northouse Landscape Co. for the Gerondale family of Mequon.

Rodger Northouse
says the three-seasons room is a retreat for the Gerondales when
nighttime mosquitoes attack. It offers all the comforts of home while
they enjoy their outdoor space, including television and Internet
connection.

One of Northouse’s
goals in designing the backyard landscape was to shield it from view
of the asphalt driveway. As visitors enter the yard, the landscape is
revealed in stages as they go deeper into the space.

They eventually
reach the pergola and outdoor kitchen, which define the gathering
spaces for entertaining.

Plantings in the
backyard are simple and designed to reinforce the architecture. In
addition, some of the plantings, such as daylillies, sedum and
daffodils, were transplanted from mature plants elsewhere on the
property. "That brought out a great deal of the softening
effect," Northouse says.

A number of
large pine trees were transplanted to the back of the property as a
backdrop to the patio.

A
path of Unilock pavers direct visitors to the backyard.

An
outdoor kitchen and entertaining area were top priorities for
the homeowners in the redesign of their backyard.

A
curved wall is both decorative and practical as it adds seating
on the patio.